In Stars,helium Can Sometimes Be Fused into Carbon and Heavier

question 77

Multiple Choice

In stars,helium can sometimes be fused into carbon and heavier elements (in their final stages of life) .Why didn't the same fusion processes produce carbon and heavier elements in the early universe?

• A)By the time stable helium nuclei had formed,the temperature and density had already dropped too low for helium fusion to occur.
• B)Helium fusion occurred,but the carbon nuclei that were made were later destroyed by the intense radiation in the early universe.
• C)Temperatures in the early universe were never above the roughly 100 million Kelvin required for helium fusion.
• D)No one knows-this is one of the major mysteries in astronomy.

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Definitions:

Treasury Stock

Shares that were issued and subsequently reacquired by the issuing company, reducing shareholders' equity.

Stockholders' Equity

The ownership interest of shareholders in a company, calculated as the company's total assets minus its total liabilities.

Treasury Stock

Shares that were once part of the float and outstanding shares, but were bought back by the company, reducing the amount of stock on the open market.

Common Stock

A type of equity security that represents ownership in a corporation, with rights to vote on corporate matters and receive dividends.